6. March 2026

What’s in a name?

Choosing a name is a significant decision, whether it’s for a child, a pet, a business, or a product. A name becomes the core of identity, the essence of who you are or what something stands for. And a name is usually for life. Changing it can be a complex process, not to be undertaken lightly.

When I decided to become a funeral celebrant, I chose to focus on supporting families who had lost loved ones through suicide and sudden death. I knew I needed a name for my service that resonated with this purpose. After much thought, I decided on Graece.

Here’s the story behind my choice.

When we lose a loved one unexpectedly, we are often left grappling with questions of ‘why'? Why them? Why now? This natural question, and the thoughts and conversations that follow, are part of the journey towards understanding and healing.

Although ‘Why’ was never going to be the right name, I pondered the word for a long time, trying to find inspiration. This led me to think about the letter ‘y’ and how it might be represented in different languages. Being a lover of all things Italian, I started there. But the letter ‘y’ doesn’t exist in Italian. However, in Latin, the letter ‘y’ is ‘i graeca,’ pronounced ‘ee grekka’

‘Graeca’ struck me as a promising start, but it sounded harsh. Modifying it to ‘graece,’ pronounced ‘grace,’ felt softer and opened up additional meanings beyond the connection with ‘y/why.’

First, ‘graece’ on its own is the Latin word for Greek, so it combines ancient Rome and Greece. The study of these two cultures and languages is known as “classics.” The derivative words ‘classic’ and ‘classical’ indicate not only excellence and quality, but also something enduring and memorable, all traits I bring into my work as a celebrant.

Second, using the pronunciation ‘grace’ conveys elegance and beauty, both qualities I aim to bring to every service.

Lastly, grace refers to a secular (as well as religious) expression of thanks. While it is traditionally said before a meal or at a special moment, I believe offering grace for a life lived is equally fitting.   

And so, ‘Graece Funeral Celebrancy’ it was. From a question to a letter to a host of meanings, my choice of name represents my approach to each unique family, their situation and their ceremony.